What Is a Roman Nose?

Written by mary osborne

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An example of a Roman or aquiline nose. (Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Kevin Dooley)

The term "Roman nose" may evoke images of noble noses on Roman statuary, but the nose shape exists today on the faces of people who have no Italian or Roman lineage. Actor Charlton Heston bore a distinctive Roman nose.

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Also Known As

A Roman nose is also referred to as an aquiline nose. The word aquiline is derived from the word "aquilinus," which means "eagle-like."

Roman Nose Description

Roman or aquiline noses have a high, curved bridge. Colloquially, an aquiline or Roman nose is referred to as a "hooknose," due to the hooklike curve in the bridge.

A Nose Not Just For Romans

Chief Roman Nose was a Cheyenne war chief who was named Woquini, which, when translated, means Hook Nose. A state park named in his honour exists today near Watonga, Oklahoma.

Speculation on the Roman-Nose Personality

George Jabet, author of the 1852 book, "Notes on Noses," claims that people who sport an aquiline or Roman nose are capable of great decision, considerable energy and firmness. He feels, however, that they display an "absence of refinement."

Dissatisfied Roman Noses

Since the "hump" or "hook" of a Roman nose can sometimes be quite pronounced, some aquiline nose owners prefer to have the nasal bone trimmed through plastic surgery. Singer Ashlee Simpson had her Roman nose altered with this surgical procedure.